Coach Ronald Koeman: “I am disappointed with this result”

A dramatic and unexpected semi-final match at EURO 2024 took place between England and the Netherlands, with Coach Ronald Koeman stating that it was an unforgettable emotional experience for the audience.

After the EURO 2024 matches, both England and the Netherlands have shown improvements, step by step winning over the audience. Whoever moves forward deserves it, but there will also be regrets for the losers. In this morning’s match, the Netherlands suffered a painful 1-2 defeat after Watkins‘ moment at the end of the match.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, the head coach of the Dutch team, Ronald Koeman, said:

“England caused us difficulties in the midfield in the first half; we couldn’t control how they played between the lines with the presence of Bellingham and Foden. We added more personnel to that position and things became more balanced.”

“My emotions in the last 20 to 25 minutes were that we played with more energy, but they scored a fantastic goal and that’s football. Maybe we deserved to go into extra time, but that’s how it is. The whole team can be proud because we had a successful tournament.”

“I am disappointed with this result. The match started very well for us and the goal came. Then we had problems in the midfield, letting dangerous names like Bellingham and Foden exploit us. We made changes, regained control, and in the last 20 minutes, we had chances. But then they scored – really, it was a beautiful goal – right when the match was about to end.”

“I am confident about the future. This team can do better and we will have new faces emerging. The whole team worked together, built cohesion, and we were very close to the final match. I am proud of my boys.”

Speaking about the young star Xavi Simons, the former Barca coach said:

“He played well. Today, Xavi showed his danger by scoring a fantastic goal. This guy always trains very hard. I am happy to have him on the team and Xavi will have a bright future.”

Finally, the 61-year-old coach shared his thoughts on the England team and the final match:

“England played very well after conceding the early goal. Spain is playing extremely well with fast wingers and their ability to build up from the back. But England has reached the final while Spain is in top form. Whether England can beat them, we will have to wait and see.”

The “Oranje” were forced to pack their bags and leave the tournament in pain while the Three Lions will enter the final against La Roja in Berlin, July 15 at 8 AM.